Marine Environment

Coral Reefs and Marine Life of Shefa

The crystal clear warm and tranquil waters that surround the islands of the SHEFA province are deservedly world famous. At the door-step of the capital city of Port Vila is Mele Bay, which offers a number of snorkel and dive sites of coral reefs, ship wrecks, deep drop-offs, swim-throughs and jaw-dropping caverns.

On a short boat trip in and around Havannah Harbour on the north-west side of the main island of Efate, you are likely to encounter some magnificent marine animals. A visit to Paul’s Rock or the Roi Mata World Heritage site is a must to see some of the most magnificent reefs in Vanuatu, teeming with schools of fish as well as colourfully rich and diverse corals.

For those more adventurous, Cooks Reef, which is situated approximately 5 kilometres South West of Emae, is a coral atoll 1.5 kilometres wide. This reef, which is virtually completely submerged and untouched, is perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving and fishing charters. ​However, if its dugongs and turtles that you are looking for then go no further than Lamen Bay, Epi Island. If you spend enough time on the waters in this bay you are sure to encounter the well known but timid local dugong and countless turtles.​We have many marine reserves and initiatives in Shefa. Have a look at the following pages for more information: